TMZ reported Tuesday that Sorrentino had checked into an "inpatient treatment program" for substance abuse. A post on another website Wednesday said, "You can't believe everything you hear about 'the situation' with The Situation, especially when it comes to some of the ridiculous embellishments TMZ has been spreading."

Asked if the situation could could impact The Situation's participation in the just-announced sixth season of "Jersey Shore," scheduled to film this summer in Seaside Heights, Marc Sorrentino said his brother is preparing to return to the MTV series.

"We expect Michael to be … he's getting ready for the next 'Jersey Shore,'" he said. "So, really, please … that's about it. We've stated the same (thing) over and over again, and to many media outlets, and we respect everyone greatly. And I believe we deserve the same respect."

On Tuesday, Sorrentino tweeted that he was "getting in amazing shape for season 6!" of "Jersey Shore."